Yes metal detectors can detect sterling silver. Sterling Silver is a type of silver alloy which includes a minimum of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals such as copper or nickel.
This gives the metal added strength and durability.
Sterling silver must not include more than 2% aluminum. These metals typically give sterling silver a softer, warmer tone than purer forms of silver like Britannia Silver or American Fine Silver (99.9%).
It is an excellent choice for those interested in creating jewelry that will be worn close to the skin because it will not cause the irritation that can come with wearing platinum or palladium jewelry over time.
What is the best metal detector to detect sterling silver?
The best metal detector to detect sterling silver is based on the type of detector, its frequency, and its circuit type.
From what I know about finding sterling silver, you should get a metal detector with a broad frequency range. On metal detectors, this is sometimes shown by varying “modes.”
Some firms sell material-specific detectors with a really lower or higher frequency.
Even though it seems like a good way to improve your gear, I’ve found that most of the time they aren’t good investment.
As a long time hobbyist, I like to experiment with new models when they come out. But for sterling silver, I usually prefer a mid-range metal detector over a high-end professional one.
Look, I have nothing against spending a lot of money on a $3,000 metal detector (my wife not so much)
And YET…
Mid-range metal detectors are made with two key concepts in mind.
User interface and flexibility.
Buying a professional sterling silver metal detector can be a good idea if you are an experienced treasure hunter or hobbyist.
But I really prefer the ease of use that comes with a mid-range metal detector.
Best beginner metal detector to detect sterling silver
The best beginner metal detector to detect sterling silver is the Garrett Ace 250.
Since 2005, the Ace 250 has been the best-selling model in its class, and there’s a justification for that.
It’s a great deal for what you pay.
This tested metal detector has a multiple search modes, LCD display discrimination options, a thorough indicator, and a narrowing down feature.
It really can’t be beat as a first metal detector for sterling silver.
Best mid-range metal detector to detect sterling silver
The best mid-range metal detector to detect sterling silver is the Garrett AT Pro.
This is one of the best mid-range metal detectors for any metal. I would definitely recommend the Garrett AT Pro to anyone who’s looking to step up their game without breaking the bank.
The Garrett AT Pro and the Garrett Ace 250 are both good at finding sterling silver, but the Garrett AT Pro has a few cool upgrades that make it even better.
The most important feature is its durability.
The AT Pro is a metal detector that works everywhere and is waterproof up to 10 feet. I think that the product as a whole is just better made.
From the pictures, it’s hard to tell, but when you take it out of the box, you can see that no expense was spared in making it.
I think this is one of the most important things for sterling silver mid-range metal detectors.
I’ve tried out a number of mid-range models that are just as well made as their cheaper counterparts and don’t deserve to be more expensive.
This means that the product will last longer and can stand up to the weather.
Believe me, I’ve been using my AT Pro for four years in soil, mud, stones, and sea water, and I’ve never had a problem with it.
There is also a switch that lets you choose between automatic and manual ground balance. I’ve also found that the target identification (TID) and super audio mode functions are sometimes useful.
Best professional metal detector to detect sterling silver
The best professional metal detector to detect sterling silver is the Minelab CTX 3030.
Now is the time to bring out the super boss.
The Minelab CTX 3030 is the top of the line when it comes to their products. There’s a reason for that, too.
This device is a MONSTER.
The list of features is too long to write down, but some of the best ones are its durability, ability to detect multiple frequencies, and ability to tell the difference between FeCo and other signals.
I think the best thing about this device is that it has GPS and PC mapping built in. This lets you record and map your exact metal detecting routes and then update them to the desktop.
As a hobbyist, I’m very happy about this addition. It lets you see every place you’ve been, make notes about your route, and gives you a great way to put all of your metal detecting information in one place.
Best place to go metal detecting for sterling silver
The best place to go metal detecting for sterling silveris at the beach. Beaches contain a lot of lost jewelry compared to other terrain.
Sterling silver is most often found in jewelry such as necklace pendants and rings. This makes beaches my go to spot for detecting sterling silver.
Can you go metal detecting for sterling silver at the beach?
Yes, you can go metal detecting for sterling silver at the beach. The best beaches to go metal detecting for sterling silver are in cities with high populations.
Examples include Miami, Maui, and Honolulu. The more people that visit a beach the more likely there is to be lost sterling silver for you to find.
Can you go metal detecting for sterling silver in creeks
Yes, you can go metal detecting for sterling silver in creeks. One of the best places to look for old pieces of sterling silver is in creeks.
I have found a number of jewelry pieces from the 1800’s in creeks. They can be hard to get around, but in the end I’ve always found them worth it.
Can you go metal detecting for sterling silver in the woods
Yes, you can go metal detecting for sterling silver in the woods. The ideal spots to go metal detecting for sterling silver in the woods are near old mines that have been forced to close.
If you want to find sterling silver while metal detecting in the woods, you should look for old man-made structures. This will definitely make it more likely for you to find old pieces of sterling silver.
How deep can metal detectors detect sterling silver?
Metal detectors can detect sterling silver at a minimum of 3 feet deep. Any entry level metal detector or above should be able to reach this depth.
If you’re looking for something deeper, you will need a metal detector with an accurate depth indicator. Higher end models can detect sterling silver up to 10 or even 15 feet deep.
What is the best detector frequency to detect sterling silver?
The best detector frequency to detect sterling silver is 3-7 kilohertz. The exact frequency to detect sterling silver will vary based on the type of detector you’re using, the environment, and what you’re looking for.
Multi-frequency metal detectors are generally the best option when targeting sterling silver.
Is metal detecting for sterling silver worth it?
Yes, metal detecting for sterling silver is worth it. Relics made of sterling silver and sterling silver jewelry are worth the trouble because they sell for a lot of money.
As a hobby, I keep a lot of sterling silver things I find. But if you do decide to sell any sterling silver relics, you can count on getting a good return.
How to identify sterling silver when metal detecting?
The best way to identify sterling silver when metal detecting is to use an ohmmeter. At room temperature, sterling silver’s resistance is 1.6 x 10^-8 ohm-meters.
Another way to identify sterling silver is with a karat test kit. These provide an accurate and quick way to determine the quality of your sterling silver finds.
What can you find made of sterling silver when metal detecting?
Items you can find made of sterling silver when metal detecting are sterling silver necklaces, rings, and earrings.
FAQ
Can metal detectors detect sterling silver rings?
Yes, metal detectors can detect sterling rings. Sterling silver rings are typically found within 3 feet of the surface.
Can metal detectors detect sterling silver necklaces?
Yes, metal detectors can detect sterling silver necklaces. Sterling silver necklaces can be detected up to 10 feet below the surface depending on the type of metal detector you use.
